Good morning, Waterloo.

As winter weather deepens and temperatures drop, Friends of the Family is increasing shelter outreach for Waterloo’s homeless residents.

The nonprofit reports household homelessness dropped from 120 to fewer than 60 and warns a change in federal funding may affect over 170,000 relying on housing support (via local programs).

Mike Fereday Heating and Air Conditioning reported that early this week (on a busy Thursday) technicians received many calls as furnaces struggled when temperatures dropped below zero.

They advise homeowners to check exhaust pipes for ice and inspect filters to prevent costly repairs amid the cold snap.

Geno’s Pizza will move from its mall location to downtown on December 14 as it marks its first anniversary under new ownership — the change follows the previous owner’s retirement and keeps the local eatery in the community.

Waterloo Regional Airport is nearing 2,000 monthly boardings — a sign it has returned to pre-pandemic levels and is experiencing one of its strongest years in over six years.

The boost reflects renewed travel demand in the area.

Waterloo Community Schools lost over $2 million in state funding when enrollment dropped below 10,000 + the district faces more budget cuts as enrollment remains low.

An early snowfall boosted the snowmobiling industry as enthusiasts prepared for winter rides in Waterloo – Dr. PowerSports reported increased sales, busy service sessions, and local groups collaborating while advising riders to renew registrations by Dec.

31.

Candy Cane Course

9 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Blain's Farm & Fleet — Registration fee required — Experience a festive 5k/12k race with family-friendly fun and holiday spirit.

The Big Soil Health Event

9 AM – 5 PM — Holiday Inn & Suites Cedar Falls-Waterloo Event Ctr — Check website for pricing — Discover innovations in soil health at this informative event by Soil Regen.

Poetry Slam

7-9 p.m. — Octopus — No cover — Enjoy an evening of vibrant spoken word performances at this community poetry slam.

Tech Help Drop-In

11 AM – 12 PM — Waterloo Public Library — Free assistance — Get tech advice and support for your devices from library staff.

Breastfeeding Class

6:30-8:30 p.m. — UnityPoint Health - Allen Hospital — Free entry — Learn essential breastfeeding techniques from a certified lactation consultant for successful nursing.

Benny Gambaiani Chair Yoga

1:30-2:30 p.m. — Benny Gambaiani Public Library — Free entry — Engage in accessible chair yoga aimed at improving flexibility and balance for all abilities.

Holy Darkness Retreat

3-9 p.m. — Trinity Episcopal Parish — $10 — Engage in stillness and reflection during a Quiet Day retreat welcoming holy darkness.

A Bel Canto Christmas

2-4:30 p.m. — Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center — Celebrate the spirit of the season with uplifting holiday music performed by local vocal ensembles.

Teen Anime & Manga Club

4-5 p.m. — Waterloo Public Library — Free entry — Discuss your favorite anime and manga series while enjoying snacks from a monthly subscription.

Computer Basics Class for Adults

11 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Waterloo Public Library — Registration required — Engage in a Q&A style class covering computer basics like interfacing, Windows, files, apps, and email.